Team watch: Afghanistan - Exciting bunch of fighters

In a country ravaged by terrorism for decades, cricket acts like a balm. Afghanistan is passionate about the gentleman's game and has the hunger for success, which has led to its team's rise in international cricket. Among the Associate nations, Afghanistan will be the team to watch out for besides Ireland.
Ever since Afghanistan sealed the World Cup spot, their graph has been rising.They might be participating in the Cup for the first time but they have a fair idea of what to expect. The Mohammad Nabi-led side has already played the last three editions of the Twenty20 World Cup in West Indies, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. They showed they can handle hype and burden of expectations.
Besides, they didn't look out of place with bowling being their strength. The trio of Dawlat Zadran, Shapoor Zadran and Hamid Hasan will enjoy the conditions in Australia and New Zealand. They all have the ability to bowl at lively pace, which they showed during the Asia Cup and Twenty20 World Cup last year. Afghanistan bowlers played a big role in their upset win over Bangladesh in win over Bangladesh in Asia Cup.
Most of them play league cricket in Pakistan, so they know enough about the fast bowling. Afghanistan pacers are also good exponents of reverse swing. If Hasan keeps himself fit, he can be a big asset. The big question is whether they can bat in those conditions against quality teams like Australia, New Zealand, England and Sri Lanka. Skipper Nabi will hold the key.
He has the ability and the experience to tackle quality attacks. Nabi is also a handy off-spinner. Ex-skipper Nawroz Mangal's role will be crucial in the middle. In a team packed with stroke-players, he will provide stability.